The Motion of Satellite 1958 Epsilon Around Its Center of Mass

摘要: Abstract : A preliminary study is made of the motion Explorer IV (Satellite 1958 Epsilon) around its center mass. The body is, to a good approximation, symmetric longitudinal axis (A) and, therefore, tangential can be considered regular precession, at least during one orbital revolution. Many observations motion, especially variation (A), were first 60 days after launch, and in direction precessional was computed. Although determinations are not precise, they definitely indicate an angular displacement 10 degrees per day 30 launch. Also, it certain that momentum remained almost constant whole period under consideration. (Author)